Chatbots are software applications used to conduct an on-line chat conversation via text or text-to-speech, in lieu of providing direct contact with a live human agent.
The Promise
- 24/7 availability.
- Instant answers to common questions.
- Scalable support.
The Trap
The AI Replacement Trap: Using chatbots to block access to humans rather than assist it.
- If a chatbot loops endlessly and prevents reaching a human, it destroys value.
- If a chatbot pretends to be human and fails, it destroys trust.
The Value-First Approach
Use chatbots for Triage and Speed:
- Answer simple questions instantly.
- Route complex issues to the right human faster.
- Be transparent that it is a bot.
- Always offer an βescape hatchβ to a real person.